Characterization of Chiral Thiophene Multilayer 3D Polymers with AIE Properties for Environmental Monitoring of Chromium Ions

This study reports the synthesis and characterization of novel thiophene-based multilayer 3D chiral polymers incorporating methoxy and octyloxy functional groups. These polymers exhibit unique fluorescence properties, including a pronounced aggregation-induced emission (AIE) phenomenon at a lower excitation wavelength than previously reported thiophene systems. Additionally, the polymers demonstrate remarkable sensitivity in detecting hexavalent chromium ions (Cr⁶⁺), a significant environmental pollutant. The interaction between the chiral polymers and Cr⁶⁺ ions leads to measurable changes in fluorescence, highlighting their potential for applications in environmental monitoring and biosensing. Importantly, these polymers are effective in actual environmental water, where they maintain their selectivity for Cr⁶⁺ ions despite the presence of competing metal ions. This enhanced selectivity further underscores their suitability for real-world applications. This work contributes to the field of chiral polymers and emphasizes their versatility in advanced sensing applications.